Sound startup South African amp (ZAAMP) will be launching a natural amplification solution to improve tablet and smartphone device sound for sharing.
Currently designed for users of iPads, iPad minis and iPhones, the wooden box with a slot for a mobile device improves sound quality and volume.
With the goal to share experiences on a variety of smaller devices which often lack audible streaming, the product will be developed for an array of markets and models.
Founder Davide Mantero and designer Paul Chames told HumanIPO as part of a three level production strategy, handmade models made by local South Africans will be produced on request with added personalised features according to design, inscription or even colour differentiation.
Cheaper, machine-produced amplifiers will be produced on industrial scale to ensure affordability to the greater public.
Additional orders could be exported to a variety of industries in the European and United States market.
However, Mantero and Chames are determined to manufacture the product from locally-available materials to keep the cost low and employ South Africans.
“I am very happy because we made something able to reproduce the music and amplify the music better than most of the other products,” Mantero told HumanIPO.
While a prototype has already been developed, ZAAMP is still exploring the possibilities around the solid panel and wood types, which has an influence on the sound according to density.
Whereas the current aluminium base can be replaced with a more lightweight option of plexiglass, the recycled wood can be used to make the product even more affordable.
Referring to market interest, Mantero said: “[It] is funny because in South Africa there are poor people who have no money, but they have a smartphone.”
Although faced with competitor Sounder, Montero and Chames agree their product offers enhanced quality and will also be more affordable to Africans, with greater sophistication.
Differences between the products include an added base on ZAAMP model which enables improved sound equalisation.
The development of a smaller, portable model focused on mobile phones is a potential next step, as well as alternative possibilities of design as a state-of-the-art multiple-use ornament with added features of light enhancement.
Furthermore an in-built solar charger for outdoor adventurers and travellers is also under investigation.
“We think it is a very good idea if this piece of wood can make you totally independent,” Mantero explained.
Currently looking for investment and industry-related contacts, the startup aims to make the product available for under ZAR500 (US$54.50), depending on material selection for market-related production.
The company received interest from a European investor at the Start Up Africa 2.0 event last week in Woodstock, Cape Town.
